Why Returning to School Was a Life-Changing Decision
Many of us face the challenge of finding a job, especially when we lack experience. It is during times like these that we realize the importance of education. For some, such as our narrator, returning to school became not just a choice but a necessity. This article explores the reasons behind the decision to return to school and how it enriched their lives.
From a Lack of Experience to College
At the age of 17, our narrator was unable to obtain employment due to a lack of experience. Like many young adults in similar situations, the decision to go to college for a year provided a stepping stone towards future opportunities. This period in college could have been a transformative experience, laying the foundation for a more structured and educated future.
From the Navy to Graduate Degrees
Our second narrator, however, had a very different path. After a few years in the Navy and some work experience in his desired field, he decided to return to school for a graduate degree. Eventually, he ended up getting three, which turned out to be one of the best decisions he ever made. The pursuit of higher education opened the door to a wealth of opportunities and significantly enriched his life.
Forced or Inspired to Go Back?
Both narrators share different reasons for returning to school. The first person did not mention being forced into it, although their summer jobs were demanding and varied. On the other hand, the second person explicitly states that no one forced them to go back to school. Instead, their curiosity and love for learning pushed them to continue their education. Both decisions, whether out of necessity or passion, had a significant positive impact on their lives.
Age and Health
Age and health played a pivotal role in the narrator's journey. At the age of 45, manual labor began to take a toll on their body. Automation was increasingly making manual skills less valuable, and the narrator found themselves out of work. In this scenario, a piece of paper, such as a bachelor's degree, provided a temporary safeguard. However, it was the pursuit of higher education that ultimately redefined their career and made them feel valued once again. Graduate degrees brought a new level of wisdom, practical knowledge, and skills, enabling the narrator to transition into teaching and continue learning.
The Power of Continuous Learning
The experience of the younger narrator highlights another significant benefit of returning to school: lifelong learning. School not only provided relief from labor-intensive jobs but also opened up new opportunities. The educational journey did not end with a degree; it continued throughout life. Today, the narrator is still a great-grandfather and continues to learn and study different subjects, illustrating the enduring value of education.
These stories underscore the importance of education at various stages of life. Whether to gain experience, improve career prospects, or simply fulfill a personal passion, returning to school can be a life-changing decision. The education system plays a crucial role in supporting these journeys, especially with the availability of online education, making learning accessible to individuals of all ages.
Conclusion
Education is a continuous journey that can provide numerous benefits, from career advancement to personal development. Both personal narratives demonstrate how returning to school can significantly enrich one's life, leading to positive changes and opportunities.
Related Keywords
Education, lifelong learning, career advancement